I am staying on Valentia Island and have one more full day to explore before heading back towards Shannon. So far, I have seen the Ring of Kerry from Killorglin to Waterville. I started towards Sneem today, but the road was too scary and I turned around. I had previously tried to contact a private driver, but didn't get a response. I thought I could make it on my own, but didn't have the stomach for it (traveling alone). I have been to the Cliffs of Kerry and done most of the Skellig Ring Drive from Ballinskelligs to Waterville. Also saw the stone ring forts at Cahersiveen and, of course, toured Valentia Island. Any suggestions for what I can do on my last day that doesn't involve drives that are too scary? Thanks!
Posted by
Sunnyside, New York, United States
439 posts
Killarney
Cliffs of Moher
Posted by
Vermont USA
359 posts
There is a new ferry service from Valentia to Dingle which would save an easy but long 70 mile drive. In Dingle you could either 1) try the drive out Slea Head - which is perfectly safe but might be scary for you - it's INSANELY spectacular. 2) Hire a driver in Dingle for the drive - it's really worth it. 3) Enjoy the nice town of Dingle - there are many shops and wonderful pubs and restaurants....and take a fun harbor cruise....see Fungi the dolphin and some very nice scenery. 4) Go early and take a boat out to the Blasket Islands. It was one of my best life days.....on the way out dolphins galore, seals, basking sharks and whales, scenery that was beyond description and then the ruins in the Blaskets with plenty of time to wander and really connect to a bygone era. It's an all day trip but well worth it with some of the most incredible scenery anywhere.
If you do try the drive .... seriously don't worry there are large blocking walls, rails etc in the few scary spots. I have a PROFOUND fear of heights and its fine for me.
Also.....I totally understand and admire your honesty and awareness to not venture on from Waterville for Sneem.....but that stretch is EXCEPTIONALLY safe. I've (a total height wimp) driven it now many many times.....and its one of the most beautiful sections of driving....in the world. It would be a shame to miss it. If you can ...... take it slow and try ...... if you feel you might be able to. It really is staggeringly beautiful and super safe. Also in Derrynane their is a cool Ogham stone, Daniel O'Connells house - very interesting and the magnificent Staigue ring fort set in a gorgeous area.
Anyway some ideas. Hope you have a great day.
PS - there are some neat things near Killarney but leave yourself extra time they've been doing a lot of road work and we got stuck there a couple weeks ago going nowhere for almost an hour. Ugggh. Killarney itself is a pile if tourist traps, leprechaun-y gift shops, Holiday Inns and McDonald's....one of the few places in Ireland I don't like - gotta agree with Rick Steeves on that......but there are a number of great spots near the city.
Posted by
OP
17 posts
Thank you both for the suggestions. I should have mentioned that I already spent some time in County Clare and visited the Cliffs of Moher and the Loop Head Drive.
I like the idea of a ferry to Dingle. Didn't know that was an option. Do you think I could find a driver in Dingle once I get there? I really would love to enjoy the scenery without being so scared. So far I've been fine with the narrow roads, but when they include steep climbs up cliffs, that's another story. 😊
Posted by
Vermont USA
359 posts
I would Google options in Dingle and set it up......wouldn't count on finding one immediately after getting off the ferry. I know there are several good drivers based there who do a wonderful job. I'll try and get the name of one from my daughter. It's an amazing spot......one of the best in Ireland.
Posted by
Indianapolis, IN, USA
154 posts
If not too late contact:
Mr. O'Conner
Coastline Tours
[email protected]
We used his service to go from Dingle to Killarney and were pleased. Not sure if his company extends where you are but perhaps he could recommend another driver if he does not. I have also used taxis to get to remote spots and that also worked out pretty well.